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HB 320

Live streaming while driving; prohibited, penalty.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Cole and 3 co-sponsors

Virginia HB 320 prohibits live streaming while driving and establishes penalties for this distracted driving behavior, addressing safety risks from broadcasting activities behind the wheel.

Governor's recommendation received by House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 320

Legislative bill overview

HB 320 prohibits drivers in Virginia from live streaming while operating a vehicle and establishes penalties for violating this restriction. The bill was introduced by Josh Cole and has progressed through the House Transportation Committee with a substitute version, receiving strong bipartisan support (21-0 vote).

Why is this important

Live streaming while driving creates serious road safety risks by diverting driver attention at critical moments, potentially increasing accident rates and fatalities. This bill addresses a modern driving hazard not explicitly covered by existing distracted driving laws, targeting behavior that combines the dangers of device use with the added risk of managing an active broadcast.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement challenges: Determining what constitutes "live streaming" versus legitimate hands-free navigation or safety features, and how officers will identify this activity during traffic stops
  • First Amendment concerns: Questions about whether broadcast restrictions during driving implicate free speech rights, particularly for journalists or content creators
  • Penalty scope: Debate over appropriate penalty levels and whether they align with other distracted driving violations, or if penalties are too harsh/lenient for the offense

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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